A photometric launch monitor uses high-speed cameras (often two or more) to capture the ball at the moment of impact and just after. From those frames, the unit calculates ball speed, launch angle, spin axis, spin rate, and direction.
How it differs from radar
Photometric monitors don't need to "see" the full flight of the ball — everything is computed from the moment of impact. That has a few practical consequences:
- Less space required. Most photometric units mount overhead or to the side of the hitting area. They don't need a long flight path behind the ball, so they fit in shorter rooms than radar.
- Lighting matters. Cameras need consistent, adequate lighting. Direct sunlight or uneven shadows can degrade accuracy.
- Direct club data. Many photometric units measure club path, face angle, and impact location directly because the cameras can see the club at impact.
Common photometric launch monitors
Foresight GCQuad, Bushnell Launch Pro, Uneekor EYE XO and EYE XO2, and SkyTrak/SkyTrak+ use photometric or photometric-based hybrid tracking.